He's here!

Well, all of the praying for contractions to really pick up and for Allison to get fully dilated worked (and very quickly after the request went out - thanks for that, everyone), but ultimately the doctors decided the best thing to do was a c-section. This wasn't our preference, but it became clear he wouldn't be able to make it out the usual way.

So, Allison went in for the c-section, I got to put on a very sexy, one-piece, full body surgery gown, and sit by Allison's head. They got him out, he had no trouble breathing, so I got to hold him for a few minutes (and Allison got to see him) before we went over to the NICU. All the standard stuff - ears, eyes, limbs, etc. - checked out. Right now he is getting a full evaluation from the cardiologists (including an ultrasound). After that, I should get to see him again. So, I'm waiting over at NICU, praying that they'll tell me it's a miracle, hoping that there are no other issues beyond his heart, and asking for strength to deal with anything else.

In the meantime, Allison is being transferred to her recovery room. She is doing well, also. She, of course, did absolutely awesome today. She did everything that she needed to do to get him out. In the end, it was her small stature that proved to be the unbreakable impediment.

Here he is: Ayden Avery; 6 lbs., 12 oz.; length TBD